Are the Dutch friendly? | Expat Arrivals

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Posted by

on 13 Jul 2012

I've heard many times that the Dutch are unfriendly. Anyone got any insights or experience of living in Holland and willing to share thier thoughts or comments?

Anonymous (not verified) on 16 Jul 2012 - 09:08

I don't think the Dutch are unfriendly, it's just that they are very direct and this often gets misinterpreted by those who are not used to it.

Anonymous (not verified) on 24 Jul 2012 - 07:57

Hey Phil, as David mentioned above, it's often more a misinterpretation of their humour and directness than unfriendlyness. I suggest taking a look at our Culture Shock in the Netherlands page to learn more abuot what you can expect from the Dutch and the way they do things.

Anonymous (not verified) on 10 Aug 2012 - 15:06

i have lived in the netherlands and i have found the dutch extremely rude unfriendly and no social skills and also very two faced. as a dutch person told me herself they have a big mouth and a small heart. Find somewhere better to be happy. you have been warned

Anonymous (not verified) on 5 Nov 2012 - 09:27

I have lived in The Hague for 12 years so my experience is based on lviing in a busy, multi-cultural, big city. I have found that while many seem stand-offish, once you establish yourself in your neighborhood and participate in your area whether it is school, sports, or community events you will find friendlier folk. They won't exactly be your best friend and you must make the first move (they don't want to intrude-I'm told). I think they just feel more comfortable with other Dutch people. If you get invited to someone's house for coffee and a cookie you are doinig great!

Anonymous (not verified) on 29 Jan 2013 - 15:19

haha a big mouth and a small heart is a dutch saying it means the opposite: people can act tough but they are soft on the inside. So we are really softies we just don't show it.

MegzMediaMegan on 4 Nov 2016 - 15:38

I haven't been there yet, but I'm from the USA, and online and friend in The Netherlands talks to me and we bond just like anyone else! It's awesome and I'm sure she knows that (Shoutout to Marjolein!)

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